Itinerary: A Granville Island Guide to Photography

Whether you’re a film enthusiast, lover of print photography or a simply an Instagram wiz, Granville Island has more than enough subject matter to fill your camera roll.

It may be obvious, but we’re just getting warmed up, so start by snapping some panoramic shots of False Creek and Vancouver’s downtown core. With views of the water in your frame, you may even catch a seal in the waves or a heron stalking the shore. You can also grab some interesting architectural shots from directly under the Granville Street Bridge.

Next on the list, Granville Island’s stunning 7,200 square metre mural, “Giants”. The 360-degree, 23-metre tall mural is painted upon six enormous industrial silos, ensuring a dramatic shot whether you’re a novice or photography pro.

If you’re in need of a little inspiration, step into the studio of international award winning photographer, Karen Cooper. Karen’s vivid work captures the graceful beauty of British Columbia’s most striking natural landscapes. From there you can grab your own nature shots of one the island’s parks, trees, birds, marine life and local flora.

Oxidized exteriors, steel beams and traces of the island’s 100+ year industrial history will be the perfect foil to your shots of the island’s softer more natural character.

Food photography may typically be faux pas, but not at Edible Canada. Stop in for a bite at the rustic Canadian bistro and indulge in the rich fare, made entirely of sumptuous local ingredients, some of which comes from the island’s own food vendors. If you can grab your camera before your plate is clear, but sure to get at least a few shots of the bistro’s stunning plating.

Before you leave for the day, see if you can snap a shot of the island’s iconic neon sign. The glowing red light illuminates a series of stark iron crosshatches, which reflect back down upon a gorgeous willow tree right at the island’s entrance, making for what may be your most picturesque shot of the day.